Roberta Closter
Unit Plan Preview
10th Grade Biology
Genetics Unit

GSE LS1 (9-11)-2

Assessment target: Explain or justify with evidence how the alteration of the DNA sequence may produce new gene combinations that make little difference, enhance capabilities, or can be harmful to the organism (e.g., selective breeding, genetic engineering, mutations). Students demonstrate an understanding of the molecular basis for heredity by …
  • 2a describing the DNA structure and relating the DNA sequence to the genetic code
LS1_p02.jpg
LS1_p02.jpg

For my unit plan, I am going to teach a genetics unit. I want to explore the structure, purpose and ethics of genetics. I want to begin the unit with discussing the structure and purpose of DNA this is the flow that I am thinking:
  • what is DNA?
  • why is it important?
  • where is DNA?
  • what is a double helix?
  • base pairing
  • DNA replication process
  • Do a lab- making DNA our of clay and toothpicks
  • What is RNA
  • 3 kinds of RNA
  • transcription, translation
  • proteins
  • amino acids
  • Start/stop codons
  • Activity- making proteins- using codons & anticodons and which amino acid is created
  • RNA/protein lab- make a protein chain
  • Human Genome Project
  • Introduce Genetic Biotechnology
  • Gene manipulation
  • PCR
  • Gene Mapping
  • Research/class discussion- pick a biotch topic in agriculture, medicine, identification and answer questions

I want to connect with students and engage them off the bat. Ill start with what DNA is (introduction) move into DNA replication, RNA structure, RNA transcription, translation of proteins from RNA, discuss basic concepts in genetic engineering, talk about bacterial cloning, PCR and end with an ethical application/discussion on genetic engineering. Im thinking I will do this in powerpoint form, using pictures, cartoons, animations, movie clips etc to get difficult points across and teach to all learning styles. I want there to be partner as well as individual work. The labs and activity will allow students to do hands on work so they will not only hear the information but they will be able to create on their own with my guidance and with their colleagues.